Children are often fascinated with the bows, arrows and targets of the time-honored sport of archery. It's a lot of fun letting an arrow fly and watching it hit the target. Archery can also be used to teach children discipline, control, mental awareness and accuracy. The basic equipment are a bow and bow string, arrows and a quiver, protective gear and a target. These items are relatively inexpensive and available at any sporting goods store.
Bows and Arrows
Small bows with light draw weights, the force required to pull the bow, that will accommodate children are commonly available. They range from simple fiberglass longbows to more complex recurve and compound bows. Smaller, child-sized arrows that will fit the shorter draw lengths of children are also available. The arrows can be purchased with blunt heads to reduce the risk of injury.
Other Equipment
A quiver, a leather or cloth container that will hold the arrows, is also required. For protective gear, an arm guard, to keep the bow string from hitting the forearm, and a tab, used to protect the fingers when drawing the bow, are also necessary. The protective gear should be sized properly to fit the child.
Targets
Complete foam targets can be purchased, or targets can be easily made from hay bales with a paper target pinned to the front. The target range should be in a safe place, away from people and pets that may be injured and items that can be damaged. It is best to start at a shorter distance to first allow your child to become comfortable with the archery set. Longer ranges can then be used later, once your child becomes proficient at shooting.
Instruction
It is important that children new to the sport of archery receive proper training. Local archery clubs, schools and sporting goods stores provide instruction for novice archers. Knowing how to handle the archery equipment, including nocking an arrow, holding and drawing the bow and aiming and releasing the arrow in flight, all require experienced instruction. Good training means good technique and a better and safer experience in the sport.
Safety
Safety is absolutely essential in the sport of archery, and children should be thoroughly taught the rules and understand the need for adult supervision when using an archery set. This includes the safe handling of arrows and other equipment, when and where to shoot and how to retrieve arrows safely. This is particularly important when teaching your child how to bow hunt, as the arrows used are extremely sharp and can cause serious injury if they're not properly handled.
